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Cesky Krumlov
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Landmark
Cesky Krumlov is an outstanding example of a medieval Central European town, with its entire center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992. The dominant feature is the castle complex, the second largest in the country after Prague Castle. Notable highlights include the round castle tower with its colorful Renaissance paintings and the Baroque theater, one of the world's best-preserved examples with original stage machinery still intact. The Vltava River loops sharply through the town, making it a popular destination for rafting and canoeing. The narrow alleys house numerous galleries, including the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Every June, the town hosts the Five-Petalled Rose Festival, a grand Renaissance spectacle with costumed parades. Local cuisine often features game dishes paired with Eggenberg beer. A unique tradition is the keeping of bears in the castle moat, a practice dating back to the 16th century.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel · Památník vítězství Ptačí hrádek · Zámecké barokní divadlo
- Nearby: Frymburk (20 km)
- Population: ~12.797 (2026)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -1 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 14 | 8 | 3 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 46 | 34 | 46 | 41 | 81 | 94 | 94 | 92 | 61 | 47 | 39 | 39 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Český Krumlov is a historic town with an accessible old town and a vast castle complex. The entire city center invites long walks, and the castle features interior tours.
Typical hours
The old town is accessible 24/7. The castle typically opens from April to October, with seasonal variations. In winter, only the courtyard and gardens are usually open.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the old town and castle grounds. Flash may be banned in the chapel and some museum sections. Tripods are often not permitted on the premises.
Time needed
Allow at least half a day for the old town and castle. For a thorough exploration including the museum and observation tower, plan a full day.
Combine with
Handy combinations include Hluboká Castle, an impressive neo-Gothic residence, or the city of České Budějovice with its large square. Both are easily reachable by bus or car.
Getting there
Český Krumlov is easily reached by bus from Prague (about 3 hours) or by train via České Budějovice. From the station, the center is about 15 minutes on foot. Parking is available on the outskirts.
Insider tip
Climb the castle tower for one of the best panoramic views over the old town and the Vltava river loop. The entrance is separate, but the view is especially rewarding in the late afternoon.
Geography
Facts
- UNESCO World Heritage since 1992
- Second largest castle in Czechia
- Bears in the castle moat since 16th c.
- Original Baroque theater preserved
- Home to Egon Schiele Art Centrum
- Five-Petalled Rose Festival in June
- Located on a loop of the Vltava River
- Renaissance painted castle tower
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cesky Krumlov (17)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long does a castle tour take?
A guided tour takes about 60-90 minutes; allow extra time for the gardens.
Are dogs allowed in the castle?
Not inside the rooms, but allowed on a leash in the outer courtyards and castle park.
Is the castle wheelchair accessible?
Partially; the courtyards are accessible, but the historical tours involve many stairs.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is usually prohibited inside the rooms, but allowed in the outdoor areas.
What are the opening hours?
The interiors are mostly open from April to October (Tue-Sun, approx. 9 AM - 5 PM).
Cesky Krumlov: where is it located?
Cesky Krumlov is located in Czech Republic.
Cesky Krumlov: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museum Fotoateliér Seidel, Památník vítězství Ptačí hrádek, Zámecké barokní divadlo.
Cesky Krumlov: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Cesky Krumlov: why is it worth visiting?
Cesky Krumlov is an outstanding example of a medieval Central European town, with its entire center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992.
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